Category Manager Professional Services (m/f/d)

Bauer Media Group • Hamburg, IA

27d • Hybrid

About The Position

This role is for a Category Manager for Professional Services within Bauer's Group Procurement team. The team shapes the global procurement strategy, working across IT, HR, and Professional Services categories. The culture is collaborative and innovative, supporting Bauer's transformation journey. The Category Manager will lead strategic procurement initiatives impacting global operations, interacting directly with senior leadership and the executive board. The role involves influencing how Bauer partners with consultancies to ensure value creation and operational excellence.

Requirements

• Proven experience in Professional Services procurement (Big 4/Big 5 or boutique consultancies)
• Minimum 2 years in Professional Services category management, plus 1–2 years in other categories
• Strong analytical and negotiation skills with the ability to influence senior stakeholders
• Fluent in English and German to a professional standard
• Ability to operate at Group level, managing complexity across multiple countries and business units

Nice To Haves

• Familiarity with AI-driven tools (e.g., ChatGPT, Copilot) and Coupa
• Experience in the media or creative industries

Responsibilities

• Develop and execute category strategies for Professional Services across Bauer’s global businesses
• Lead negotiations and manage supplier relationships with major consultancies and niche providers
• Drive cost optimization and value creation while maintaining strong stakeholder engagement
• Collaborate with hubs in Germany, Poland, and the UK to ensure alignment and operational efficiency
• Champion innovation in procurement processes, leveraging tools like Coupa and emerging AI solutions

Benefits

• Individual solutions for flexible organisation of working hours and location
• Targeted and individual training for your professional and personal development
• A central location in Hamburg's city centre with good transport options (bus & train)
• Subsidy for Deutschlandticket & bike leasing
• Effective health management (e.g. health week, free sports programmes & Wellhub)
• 30 days of holiday & frequent events for employees
• Company restaurant, free magazines & various discounts via corporate benefits

What This Job Offers

• Job Type: Full-time
• Career Level: Mid Level
• Education Level: No Education Listed